Jordan House: A Journey Through Iowa's History
Discover West Des Moines' oldest home, a Victorian masterpiece and Underground Railroad stop, at the historic Jordan House Museum.
Step back in time at the Jordan House, a stately Italianate Gothic home built in 1850 by James C. Jordan, one of West Des Moines' first settlers. This historic house, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, offers a unique window into Iowa's past. James Jordan, a cattle farmer and staunch abolitionist, played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, using his home as a haven for freedom seekers. The house also welcomed weary travelers heading west and served as a gathering place for local leaders. Radical abolitionist John Brown even stayed at the Jordan House on multiple occasions, once while leading a group of formerly enslaved people to freedom. A tour of the Jordan House reveals sixteen period rooms filled with antique treasures that reflect the heritage of West Des Moines. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the Underground Railroad and artifacts from the early days of the railroad in West Des Moines. The house itself evolved over time, with expansions in 1870 adding more space for Jordan's growing family. Today, the Jordan House stands as a museum and the office of the West Des Moines Historical Society, offering guided tours that bring its history to life.
Local tips
- Check the West Des Moines Historical Society website for tour schedules and to purchase tickets in advance.
- Allow at least 90 minutes for a comprehensive guided tour of the house and exhibits.
- Consider visiting during special events or educational programs for a deeper understanding of the Jordan House's history.
A brief summary to Jordan House
- 2001 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
- +1515-225-1286
Getting There
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Driving
The Jordan House is located at 2001 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines, IA. From I-35, take the Mills Civic Parkway exit and head east. Continue east on Mills Civic Parkway, then turn onto Fuller Road. The Jordan House will be on your right. Free parking is available on-site. Limited parking may be available during peak hours.
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Public Transport
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) serves West Des Moines. Several bus routes connect to the surrounding areas. From the DART Central Station in downtown Des Moines, take a bus that services Valley West Mall. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk or a short taxi/rideshare to the Jordan House. A single DART bus fare is $1.75.
